Tire manufacturers typically finesse the balance between comfort and performance by adjusting compound ratios and structural geometry. But to tweak the ride quality and handling of their latest motorcycle rubber, Michelin stepped outside of the box and combined two seemingly mutually exclusive construction methods: bias and radial ply.

The basic premise is simple: achieve the overall structural stiffness and load-bearing capabilities of a bias ply, with the flexibility and performance of a radial ply. Michelin claims their new 2AT (Dual Angle Technology) combines bias and radial plys into the same tire to enable significant load bearing characteristics along with enough flex for a comfortable ride, which is essentially the same goals aimed for when motorcycle manufacturers mix radial and bias-ply tires on the same bike at either end.

What does it feel like when this rubber meets the road? We wouldn't know, as we haven't ridden Michelin's latest creations (yet)-- but we'll certainly share our impressions if we can put this seemingly best-of-both-worlds scenario to the test.